Pickleball is a fast-growing sport enjoyed by players of all skill levels. Whether you prefer singles or doubles, each version of the game requires a different approach. While both formats share the same court and rules, the strategy, movement, and shot selection differ significantly.
If you're wondering which version suits your playing style or how to adjust your strategy when switching between singles and doubles, this guide breaks down everything you need to know!
✅ Key rule differences between singles and doubles
✅ The biggest strategy adjustments you need to make
✅ How to improve your game in both formats
✅ Which format is right for you?
Let’s dive in!
1. The Main Differences Between Singles & Doubles Pickleball
The rules of singles and doubles pickleball are nearly identical, but there are some key differences that impact how the game is played.
| Feature | Singles Pickleball | Doubles Pickleball |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Players | 1 per side | 2 per side |
| Court Coverage | Must cover the entire court alone | Share coverage with a partner |
| Serving Rules | Serve and score on your own | Team serves until both players lose a rally |
| Scoring | 11-point games (win by 2) | 11-point games (win by 2) |
| Strategy Focus | Speed, power, endurance | Placement, teamwork, dinking |
| Shot Selection | More drives & passing shots | More dinking & soft play |
| Movement | More running, covering the court solo | Controlled movement, positioning at the net |
Both versions are exciting in their own ways! However, your strategy must change depending on the format you play.
2. Singles Pickleball: Key Strategies & Tips
Singles pickleball is more like tennis than doubles pickleball. Since you don’t have a partner to help cover the court, you need speed, endurance, and precise shot placement.
🏓 Singles Strategy #1: Serve Deep & Force a Weak Return
Since only the server can score in pickleball, a strong serve is crucial.
✅ Aim deep in your opponent’s court to push them back.
✅ Mix up your serving locations (wide and down the middle).
✅ Use a powerful drive serve or add spin to make returns difficult.
📌 Pro Tip: The deeper your serve, the harder it is for your opponent to attack right away.
🏓 Singles Strategy #2: Attack the Open Court
In singles, there is a lot of open space—and that’s where you should aim your shots.
✅ Hit cross-court passing shots to force your opponent to run.
✅ If your opponent is at the net, use a lob to push them back.
✅ Use angled shots to make it harder for your opponent to reach the ball.
📌 Pro Tip: Instead of hitting the ball directly at your opponent, place your shots where they are not.
🏓 Singles Strategy #3: Control the Kitchen Line
Many singles players struggle with moving in and out of the kitchen.
✅ After serving, move toward the kitchen to take control.
✅ Be ready to volley if your opponent gives you a weak shot.
✅ Avoid getting stuck in no man’s land (between the baseline and kitchen).
📌 Pro Tip: If you can control the net, you’ll win more points in singles pickleball.
🏓 Singles Strategy #4: Improve Your Endurance
Singles pickleball requires a lot of movement. To play at your best:
✅ Work on footwork drills to improve speed and agility.
✅ Strengthen your legs with squats and lunges.
✅ Improve stamina with cardio exercises like jogging or cycling.
📌 Pro Tip: A good pair of pickleball shoes and moisture-wicking shirt will help you stay fresh during long games.
👕 Stay Cool on the Court!
A 50/50 DryBlend pickleball t-shirt keeps sweat away, while the 100% Polyester Mesh Pickleball t-shirt is perfect for intense matches.
3. Doubles Pickleball: Key Strategies & Tips
Doubles pickleball is more about teamwork, positioning, and controlled shot placement rather than pure speed and power.
🏓 Doubles Strategy #1: Communicate with Your Partner
Good communication is the foundation of a great doubles team.
✅ Call out shots like “Mine!” or “Yours!”
✅ Decide who covers the middle before the game starts.
✅ Use hand signals to coordinate poaching (when one player moves to take a shot).
📌 Pro Tip: If you and your partner hesitate, your opponents will take advantage. Talk before each point!
🏓 Doubles Strategy #2: Get to the Kitchen Line Quickly
In doubles, most points are won at the net.
✅ After serving, move forward as a team to the kitchen line.
✅ If you stay back, your opponents will dink you to death.
✅ Once at the kitchen, stay balanced and use soft hands for controlled dinks.
📌 Pro Tip: A good rule is “first team to the kitchen usually wins.”
🏓 Doubles Strategy #3: Master the Third Shot Drop
One of the most important shots in doubles is the third shot drop.
✅ Instead of smashing the ball, hit a soft drop shot into your opponent’s kitchen.
✅ This allows you time to move forward and get into position.
✅ If your drop shot is good, your opponent can’t attack it, giving you control.
📌 Pro Tip: The third shot drop is the most effective way to set up a winning strategy in doubles pickleball.
🏓 Doubles Strategy #4: Play Smart, Not Just Fast
Unlike singles, where power is key, doubles is all about patience.
✅ Focus on placing your shots well instead of hitting hard.
✅ Don’t rush—wait for the right opportunity to attack.
✅ Play a mix of soft dinks and aggressive putaways.
📌 Pro Tip: The best doubles players frustrate their opponents by playing smart, not just fast.
4. Singles vs. Doubles: Which is Right for You?
Both singles and doubles pickleball have their own challenges and rewards.
✔️ Play Singles If:
- You like fast-paced, high-energy games.
- You enjoy covering the whole court by yourself.
- You want to improve footwork, endurance, and power.
✔️ Play Doubles If:
- You prefer team strategy and communication.
- You like a slower, more controlled game.
- You want to focus on placement, dinking, and net play.
📌 Pro Tip: Many top players play both singles and doubles to develop a well-rounded game.
5. Gear Up for Pickleball Success!
No matter which version of pickleball you play, wearing the right apparel can keep you comfortable on the court.
👕 Moisture-Wicking Pickleball T-Shirts – Stay cool in a 50/50 DryBlend t-shirt or upgrade to a 100% Polyester Mesh t-shirt for even more breathability.
🥤 Pickleball Tumblers – Stay hydrated with a pickleball-themed tumbler, perfect for keeping drinks cold during long matches.
Shop now at Big Green Pickle and play your best game!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re playing singles or doubles, understanding the key differences will help you improve your game and win more points.
🏓 Singles requires speed, endurance, and powerful shots.
🏓 Doubles focuses on teamwork, control, and patience.
🏓 Choose the format that suits your style—or play both!
Next time you step on the court, try out these strategies and see the difference for yourself!
